Laser-scanning flow cytometer with a three-dimensional microfluidic chip

We have developed a new flow cytometer utilizing a three-dimensional (3D) microfluidic disposable plastic chip and real-time multi-spectral deconvolution analysis. The chip has microfluidic channels where sample particles flow down in the center of each channel. Three laser diodes (LDs) are used, of which the laser beams are scanned with a polygonal mirror, and only the centers of the microfluidic channels are irradiated with pulsed flashes. Emitted fluorescence light is separated in spectral distribution with a grating and is detected with a 32-arrayed photomultiplier tube (PMT). The spectral signal is deconvoluted with reference spectra of all fluorescent components.